Gabriola Sounder

Trustees approve renewal of short-term vacation rental on Strand

The Gabriola Local Trust Committee (LTC) has approved a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) to allow a short-term vacation rental to continue operating on the Strand near Sandwell Provincial Park.

Ferry hill signs get another month’s stay of execution as Trust seeks balanced solution

Warren Dingman, Bylaw Enforcement Officer for the Islands Trust, reported to the Gabriola Trust Committee that there are four open files for signage on Gabriola currently.

City, Seaspan and Southern Rail announce future plans for land next to Gabriola ferry terminal

Local owner calls liquor reform laws a farce at taxpayers expense

When it comes to the new liquor laws put in place earlier this spring by the BC government, and the pricing structure created, local store owner Michael Brown says he and many other owners are still trying to figure out what the government’s end game is.

41 islanders taught how to provide Mental First Aid

Course co-funded by Island Health and the Gabriola Health Care Foundation; developed by Mental Health Commission of Canada

AirBnB rentals just as illegal as any other under-30-days rental

Advertising on Airbnb does not affect the lawfulness of a tourist accommodation operation.

School District staff proposing fees for riding school bus

Parents may have to pay for their children to ride school buses in the Gabriola school district, starting in 2016/17, if a proposal brought to the Board is approved.

School district two-year budget calls for closure of four schools in 2016

The Board of Education for Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District 68 is considering closing as many as four schools in June of 2016 as part of its “Next Steps” facilities plan proposed in its current budget.

Houle holds off on asking for RDN pullout of NEDC

Director Howard Houle says he has held off on a motion which would start removing Electoral Area B from the Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation (NEDC).

Mental Wellbeing – A Community Approach

May 4 to 8 is Mental Health Week. It is a time to appreciate our own good health and provide wellness opportunities for those who are struggling to achieve well-being. To honour the critical importance of mental health in our day-to-day lives, a number of community organizations and individuals are hosting mental wellness activities.